USCIS Immigration & Visas — Green Card, Naturalization Guide
To apply for US citizenship (naturalization), file Form N-400 online at my.uscis.gov, attend biometrics appointment, pass English and civics test at interview, and take the Oath of Allegiance. Processing typically takes 8-14 months.
Most common USCIS forms
USCIS handles multiple immigration pathways. Here are the most frequently used forms:
- Form N-400: Application for Naturalization (become a US citizen)
- Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (renew or replace your green card)
- Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative (sponsor a family member)
- Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization (work permit)
- Form I-131: Application for Travel Document (re-entry permit or advance parole)
What you'll need (general checklist)
While requirements vary by form, these documents are commonly required:
- Copy of your Permanent Resident Card (front and back), if applicable
- Valid passport-style photos (2×2 inches, white background)
- Complete travel history for the last 5 years (all trips over 24 hours)
- Birth certificate and certified English translation (if document is in a foreign language)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable) and certified translation
- Court and criminal records (if applicable)
- Payment for filing fee (varies by form: $400-$1,400)
Step-by-step application process
Determine which form you need
Visit uscis.gov/forms and identify the correct form for your situation. Each form has specific eligibility requirements listed on its instruction page.
Create a my.uscis.gov account
Create a free account at my.uscis.gov. This is required for online filing and lets you track your case, receive notifications, and respond to requests for evidence.
Complete and submit your application
Fill out the form online (recommended) or by mail. Attach all required documents and payment. Review everything carefully before submitting — errors delay processing.
Attend biometrics appointment
USCIS will mail you an appointment notice for fingerprints and photos at an Application Support Center (ASC). Bring your appointment notice and valid ID.
Attend interview (if required)
For naturalization (Form N-400), you'll have an in-person interview where you'll answer questions about your application and take the English and civics test.
Receive decision and take oath (N-400 only)
If approved for citizenship, you'll receive a notice to attend a naturalization ceremony. You must take the Oath of Allegiance to receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
How much does it cost?
Filing fees vary significantly by form type:
| Form | Purpose | Filing Fee | Biometric Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N-400 | Naturalization (citizenship) | $640 | $85 | $725 |
| I-90 | Green card renewal/replacement | $415 | $85 | $500 |
| I-130 | Family petition | $535 | — | $535 |
| I-765 | Work permit (EAD) | $410 | $85 | $495 |
| I-131 | Travel document | $575 | $85 | $660 |
Processing times
Processing times vary widely depending on the form type and your local USCIS field office:
- Form N-400 (Naturalization): 8-14 months
- Form I-90 (Green card renewal): 6-10 months
- Form I-130 (Family petition): 12-24 months (highly variable)
- Form I-765 (Work permit): 3-5 months
Check current processing times for your form and local office at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times.
How to track your case status
After filing, you'll receive a receipt notice with a 13-character receipt number (example: MSC2190012345). Use this to:
- Check your status online at egov.uscis.gov/casestatus
- Sign up for automatic case status updates via email or SMS in your my.uscis.gov account
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 (Monday-Friday, 8am-8pm ET)
Common mistakes to avoid
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